Strong 'Enders episodes for Corrie 50th week

EastEnders producer Bryan Kirkwood has revealed that the soap will have a "good week of episodes" during Coronation Street's 50th birthday celebrations.

Kirkwood told This Morning that the production team specifically planned strong episodes when they discovered their rival show's anniversary plans, which include a fatal tram crash.

He said: "We plan up to nine months in advance with storylines. Some of our long-term storylines are two or three years in the future. We knew Corrie's 50th was happening in the first week of December so we've got a good week of episodes.

"There are no explosions, there are no trams, but I'm really happy with the material we've got."

Speaking about the ITV1 soap, he added: "I say good on them and good luck. It's a great show. They've embarked on a live episode. When I see the pictures of their tram crash I feel more than a little bit jealous - they've got a huge stunt on the way. But I'm sure they'll do it brilliantly."